Elephant Butte SP, NM. Any thoughts?

[TonyCO]

I used the search function and only found one mention of Elephant Butte (KanTC--I hope you are still on the forum, talk about a wealth of knowledge!). Anyway we are itching to get out during Spring Break (mid March) and I figure we better head south. Our family loves anything that resembles a beach. The wife and kids are actually cool about road tripping, but we only have 5 or 6 days. So no SoCal or South Texas this time. I am looking to stay around 500 miles from home. We live just south of Denver, so I am guessing Elephant Butte might be the closest beach with decent warm weather for us. Any of you seasoned Rvers have any suggestions for a second year rookie family? Thanks in advance for your time.

[hankaye]

ToneyCo, Howdy;

Even if it is only about 30 miles from me I've yet to go there, and I've been
here about 3 1/2 years now.

Today's temp was near 80 sumtin'. It's a long drive down to here from there.
You have probably already routed it and know the exit is either 83 or79 at
T. or C. There are several campgrounds between the 2 and there is also the
State Park;
http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/ElephantButteLakeActivities.html

OR, ... you can look these over (includes the State park), call'em up and talk
to'em.
http://www.rvparkreviews.com/regions/new-mexico/elephant-butte

hankaye

[cmsmith22]

If you want to stay at the waters edge and dry camp the best place is Hot Springs Cove. Go every year with friends. When we go alone we like Monticello Campground at the north end of the lake. You should have a great time.


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[roadglide]

Tony March is great weather for the lakes . I live 15 between the 2 lakes. It will cost you 8$ night to dry camp. Have you got a 4x4 truck if not stay away from the beaches . I park my Impact away from the marina where the ground is hard .

[TonyCO]

Thank you all for the responses. Insider info, that's what I was looking for. I do have a 4x4 with brand new BFG KO/2 's so I should be alright on the sand. Do you agree the best beach spot is Hot Springs? I figure we will do a few nights on the beach and then head up to the electric spots or even try a full hook up RV Park close by. Thanks again!

[KanTC]

Hi TonyCO,

We've never camped at Elephant Butte SP, although we've stayed at Caballo & Percha Dam, and other commercial RV Parks in that area.

Other members have offered good suggestions/info, and I'll add the following:

Spring break at EB lake can be very busy, especially if the lake/water levels are up/better than the past few years... were you planning to make reservations?? Your choices of places to stay will likely be limited given that it's already March.

Hint: spring-time in NM can be W-I-N-D-Y... don't leave your awning extended & leave camp. On our last trip, several near-by RV's lost awnings
during a nasty sandstorm! :eek:

Have fun & be safe!
Terri, the Chevy co-pilot :)

[roadglide]

Thank you all for the responses. Insider info, that's what I was looking for. I do have a 4x4 with brand new BFG KO/2 's so I should be alright on the sand. Do you agree the best beach spot is Hot Springs? I figure we will do a few nights on the beach and then head up to the electric spots or even try a full hook up RV Park close by. Thanks again!
Go into the main gate make the left your pass improved sites on a paved road over looking the lake continue to a dirt road straight down to the lake. the island or peninsula the island will be called rattle snake a lot of beach and opened to the lake . the lake is up now because the rio grand is shut off at the dam till june.

[roadglide]

http://www.sierracountynewmexico.info/attractions/elephant-butte-lake-map/ Here is a map of the lake and camp grounds.

[TonyCO]

Go into the main gate make the left your pass improved sites on a paved road over looking the lake continue to a dirt road straight down to the lake. the island or peninsula the island will be called rattle snake a lot of beach and opened to the lake . the lake is up now because the rio grand is shut off at the dam till june.


Thanks again for all the great info.

[hankaye]

TonyCO, Howdy;

Here's a link to NM dept of Game and Fish should you decied to wet a line or give a worm swimming lessons.
http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/fishing/weekly-report/
Elephant Butte is in the SW part of the State.

hankaye

[bsmith0404]

You've already gotten great info on the camping situation. Be prepared though, you will not find shade trees at these parks. Although the beach situation is good and you can rent personal watercraft as well, don't miss the opportunity to hit some of the hot springs in the local area. My wife and I love the Riverbend Hot Springs in T or C, great views overlooking the river.